Review: Go Pro HERO4

Are you searching for a way to better capture high-quality action shots? If so, the GoPro is likely the go-to camera you choose. Originally created in 2002, this camera has evolved quite a bit with the latest, most innovative option to date being the Go Pro HERO4. If you are on the fence about whether or not this is a product you should purchase, learn a bit more about it here.

The Hero4 can be used to capture quality footage of all types of sports and activities. It can also be used for filmmaking and the small sizes allow cinematographers to easily capture images from tight corners and do it rather cost effectively when compared to professional video equipment.

All the footage can be manipulated and altered thanks to the easy-to-use Windows, Android and iOS phone companion app. In addition to allowing you to control the settings of the camera, you can also play back any video that has been caught with Wi-Fi direct. Once it is connected, the camera is quite intuitive and the app allows you to copy footage from the Hero4, allowing you to share and upload any images and video to social networks.

Top Features

The Go Pro HERO4 is a favorite action camera for consumers. It is a Full HD camera that contains virtually all the features of the original camera, along with a rear touchscreen LCD. It is also more affordable and provides quite a bit of value for cost-conscious consumers.

Other features that make this version of the GoPro appealing include the following:

It’s offered in 3 editions: Silver, Black, and new Session.

Black shoots 4K at 30fps but no rear LCD.

Same underwater housing on each option.

Features Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

ProTune offered for fine tuning in the settings.

Night lapse and night photo options.

Includes GoPro’s Studio desktop editing software.

What’s Unique about the Go Pro HERO4

The majority of GoPro users are content with footage in 1080p and the ability to capture images they are able to upload to social media right away. The Session and Silver cams and the entry-level Hero options will satisfy the majority of user’s needs. However, for those who want 4K content, the Black option delivers.

The unique features of this device include:

2x the performance of the previous Hero3+

4K capture

120 frame per second rate in 1080

Superior image control

Curved and flat adhesive mount

Quick release buckle

3-way pivoting arm

With the black Go Pro HERO4, you can shoot with a higher resolution, which allows you to downscale the images.

Go Pro HERO4 Price

The average price of the Go Pro HERO4 is $499.00. This price is actually lower than some of the other GoPro models and offers more features and functionality than other options available for sale. If you are looking for higher quality image capturing abilities, then this device should be on your purchase list.

Potential Drawbacks

One of the biggest omissions of the Go Pro HERO4 is the fact that it does not have a built-in monitor. This minimizes the ability to check-out the images captured, which some users don’t like. The battery life on the device is also less than impressive for some. Another feature that some users don’t appreciate is the fact that it is difficult to make any menu changes without using the app. This can be annoying for people who are using the camera out and about.

Conclusion

The option of the Go Pro HERO4 you purchase is typically determined by the features you want the device to have. Prior to making a purchase, it is a good idea to ask yourself if you want to capture images in 4K. For most people, the 2.7K or 1080 will satisfy most users’ needs.

However, if you are a working professional or looking to future proof every image and video you take, then purchasing the Black is a no-brainer. The fact is, it is just a matter of time before all content is going to be moving to 4K, especially when it comes to being online.

There is no question that the Go Pro HERO4 is a great and innovative device that delivers on the promises made. Even if the user is not a professional shooter, or someone who understands color grading, the ability to easily capture motion in 4K is a smart investment. After all, GoPro is considered “the” go-to brand when it comes to motion capture images and video. The Go Pro HERO4 continues this legacy of quality images and innovative products.

At Tech Imperatives, we’re passionate about helping our readers learn about new technologies. We love reading and writing about the latest devices, so we have turned out interest into a useful resource that you can use to help you decide what types of consumer technology are right for you.

In addition to explaining general features included in products like smartphones, fitness trackers, and sleep wristbands, we give you specific details that will help you understand the pros and cons of each model.